Source: Ortiz 'likely' to hit open market

Thu, 11/01/2012 - 11:56am — Rob Bradford

According to a source familiar with the negotiations, it currently appears "likely" David Ortiz and the Red Sox won't reach an agreement on a two-year deal before the designated hitter reaches the open market in two days. The Red Sox are allowed to conduct exclusive negotiations with Ortiz until 12:01 a.m. Saturday, at which time other organizations will be allowed to talk contract with the free agent; as of now, the source said, it does not appear that a deal will be reached during the window of exclusivity.

The other option for Ortiz would be to accept the one-year, $13.3 million qualifying offer the Red Sox will presumably present, which is a decision the 36 year-old will have to decide on by 12:01 a.m. on Nov. 9.